SUNDAY will see the Demons and Tigers do battle in a seven-period match simulation at Casey Fields, as preparations continue for the 2024 AFL season.
A mix of youth and experience will hit the deck across the extended game, with the Demons naming a 31-player squad to take part.
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Max Gawn will lead his team out for season number five as captain, joined by the likes of Jack Viney, Christian Petracca and Tom Sparrow in the middle, while defensive duo Jake Lever and Steven May will lead the charge down back.
Draftees Caleb Windsor, Koltyn Tholstrup and Kynan Brown have all been included, as has recruit Jack Billings.
While fans will get to see a legion of Demons take the field, Melbourne will be without a few familiar names come Sunday.
Tom McDonald and Lachie Hunter will not take part, both experiencing calf tightness, while Charlie Spargo will sit out as a result of some Achilles soreness.
In good news, all three are expected to be available for Melbourne’s AFL practice match against Carlton in 11 days’ time.
Harrison Petty will not feature in the Dees’ line-up this week; a toe concern ruling him out. Melbourne’s GM of AFL Performance Alan Richardson provided an update.
“Harrison has been experiencing some soreness in his toe, which has meant he hasn’t been able to build up his training loads as we would’ve liked,” Richardson said.
“He won’t play on Sunday, but we will continue to monitor him in the lead up to our practice match against Carlton.”
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Melbourne fans will also have to sit tight to see forward Shane McAdam in his new colours.
“Shane has some ongoing tightness in his calf, and we have made the decision to take a conservative approach,” Richardson said.
“He is going to be such an important player for us, so we don’t want to be risking anything at this stage of the pre-season.”
Richardson also provided an update on defender Daniel Turner, who will be sidelined for an extended period of time.
“Daniel has unfortunately sustained a stress fracture in his femur,” Richardson said.
“This will see him miss quite a significant block, with his return-to-play timeline being 10 to 12 weeks.
“While this news is really disappointing, we know the type of person and athlete Daniel is, and expect him to attack his rehab with a positive and determined mindset over the coming weeks.”
Taj Woewodin will also be unavailable on Sunday after sustaining a concussion last week at training, and Andy Moniz-Wakefield is currently working towards a return against Carlton following a thigh strain.
Angus Brayshaw won’t take part in Sunday’s match simulation due to illness.
The game will also coincide with the launch of the Demon Family Series; the first featured event, presented by Beyond Bank, making it easier for Melbourne members and supporters to get their footy fix.
From signing opportunities to kids’ activities and partner giveaways, the day is not to be missed. Gates open from 9.30am, with play commencing at 10am.
Supporters heading to the game are encouraged to leave additional time for travel to Casey Fields with Berwick-Cranbourne Road down to one lane in some parts due to roadworks, with expectation of delays. Alternatively, fans can seek alternative routes including Clyde Road.
For those who can't make the trip to Casey Fields, the match will be broadcast live on Fox Footy, available on Kayo Sports and Foxtel.
